Editor's Review

Following a series of complaints, KWS raided a private property where they found 24 crocodiles and 7 tortoises.

Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) has responded after crocodiles were recorded freely walking in the streets of Malindi. 

In a video shared by Kileleshwa Member of County Assembly Robert Alai, one crocodile was captured walking along the road in broad daylight.

The lawmaker raised concern indicating that it was a threat to the locals. He further alleged that crocodiles were owned by a British national. 

"These Crocodiles roam the neighbourhood and are a menace to locals. Kindly intervene and stop before someone is mauled," Alai wrote in a video that attracted over 49,000 views on the social media platform X formerly known as Twitter.

Crocodile captured by KWS officers on Friday, December 29, 2023.PHOTO | COURTESY

Following a series of complaints, KWS raided a private property where they found 24 crocodiles and 7 tortoises.

The officers then transferred the crocodiles to Nairobi where they are being preserved.

"KWS successfully relocated 24 crocodiles and 7 tortoises from the Malindi Crocodile Farm to Mamba village. Among them, 4 crocodiles, 1 Aldabra tortoise, and 6 leopard tortoises will be settled in their new home at the KWS Nairobi Animal Orphanage," the authority stated.

"Your vigilance and support play a crucial role in preserving our national heritage," KWS added.

It is not clear if KWS revoked the license of the owner of the farm reportedly breeding crocodiles and tortoises in the area following the incident.

However, KWS acted to prevent human-wildlife conflict which has been on the rise in the country.